Sunetra Pawar, newly appointed chief of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, has vowed to uphold the legacy of her late husband, Ajit Pawar, whose death one month ago left a profound impact on the political landscape of the state.

Ajit Pawar’s Ideals Remain Central to NCP’s Future

In a deeply emotional post on social media, Sunetra Pawar described Ajit Pawar as a leader driven by compassion and an unwavering commitment to public welfare. She emphasized that his principles would continue to guide the party and its members.

“A man of heart and soul. A deep sense of humanity, an unceasing sincere urge to work, and an untiring attitude to strive for society — this was the true personality of Ajit Dada,” Sunetra Pawar wrote. She added that his firm stand on using power for public welfare and the path of development he envisioned would remain the party’s guiding principles.

“Ajit Dada will always remain in our memories. His reflection will forever be seen in our thoughts, our actions, and in every work we do,” she said, highlighting the enduring influence of her late husband on the party’s direction.

Grieving Family Members Recall Last Moments

Ajit Pawar’s son, Jay Pawar, expressed deep grief, saying the void left behind is felt “at every step and every moment.” In a heartfelt message, he said, “It has been a month since you left us. I still cannot believe it. I am still speechless. I do not understand what to write further.”

NCP (SP) legislator and nephew Rohit Pawar shared a poignant note recalling a WhatsApp call he made to Ajit Pawar on January 28, the day before his death. “What happened still feels like a bad dream. That day, I dialed his number, but the call was not picked up, and that familiar heavy voice was not heard. It is extremely painful,” he wrote.

Another nephew, Yugendra Pawar, posted a long emotional tribute on Facebook, expressing both grief and a resolve to carry forward his uncle’s political and social legacy. He said questions surrounding the circumstances of the accident that led to Ajit Pawar’s death continue to trouble the family, with many seeking clarity about what exactly transpired.

“It has been the heaviest and most painful month of our lives. Even today, the heart refuses to accept your absence,” Yugendra said, adding that the family, including his grandmother and father, continues to struggle with the loss.

He also noted that the ongoing Budget Session of the Maharashtra Legislature feels incomplete without Ajit Pawar’s commanding presence and voice in the House. “Your path will be our path. Your dream will be our goal. Your void can never be filled,” Yugendra said.

Political Community Reflects on Ajit Pawar’s Legacy

Meanwhile, NCP (SP) working president and cousin Supriya Sule said it was still difficult to come to terms with his passing. “The void created by Ajit Dada’s departure will never be filled. The memories of the joyful moments spent with you will stay with us for life,” she wrote on X.

As Maharashtra’s political fraternity remembers one of its most influential leaders, party workers say Ajit Pawar’s emphasis on development-oriented politics and grassroots connect will remain central to the NCP’s path ahead. His focus on inclusive growth and public welfare was a cornerstone of his political career, and the party is expected to continue this trajectory.

With the upcoming legislative session and state elections on the horizon, the NCP faces the challenge of maintaining its momentum while honoring Ajit Pawar’s ideals. The party’s leadership, including Sunetra Pawar, has pledged to ensure that his vision remains a guiding force in its future strategies and policies.